10 keys to making good posts

There are some very simple guidelines I try to follow when making a post (a reply to another post):

1) Be sure you understand what you are responding to. Read it multiple times if necessary.
2) Make sure you have a relevant comment and evaluate the importance vs effort required.
3) Check that you aren't repeating something that has already been said. It pays to read a thread.
4) Know what you are talking about. Weeding through false information is extremely annoying.
5) Expand appropriately on relevant areas and never be afraid to do a little research (aka googling).
6) Remain calm and collected at all times. The guy who freaks out always gives a bad impression.
7) Be assertive and critical. Always hold your ground but never be afraid to admit you were wrong.
8) Know how to maintain a healthy skepticism, a logical approach, and a respect for other opinions.
9) Try to stick to the topic at hand. Never lower yourself to personal attacks or other petty actions.
10) Always have fun and never take your posts or other posts too seriously. This is the internet.

Just kidding..
You should add "Know how to construct an easily readable paragraph". I really dislike being faced with a wall of text, especially when it is
something I'm interested in reading. I'm not pedantic about it either... Just hit the enter key at random intervals, and I'll be happy.

Edit:
Aw, Alfa beat me to the joke! That makes me think of another thing to add to your list though..."Avoid taking a break in the midst of composing a
post"

Originally posted by CasiusIgnoranze
14) Was this thread really necessary?

It took me like 2 minutes to write out those points. It's in the off-topic literature section. If you don't find it useful move along to another
thread. I highly doubt some one else has written the exact points I have here, so give me a break.

Thank you C.O. Regardless of whether there is a thread or threads on this, I'm glad you posted it. This is something that the mighty mods should
post once a week because it's clear to me that many do not use the search function or bother to go to the newbie dept. when they get here to find out
about these things. S&F.

The Above Top Secret Web site is a wholly owned social content community of The Above Network, LLC.

This content community relies on user-generated content from our member contributors. The opinions of our members are not those of site ownership who maintains strict editorial agnosticism and simply provides a collaborative venue for free expression.